Getting around — Northern Thailand

Getting around Northern Thailand is generally easy thanks to developed infrastructure and some of the lowest transport fares in Southeast Asia.

In Bangkok, the public transport network has expanded considerably in recent years. The BTS Skytrain (elevated rail, two lines: Sukhumvit and Silom) covers the most touristy districts for 15-59 THB per ride depending on distance — fast, air-conditioned, with a frequency of 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours. The MRT (underground metro, Blue and Yellow lines) complements it, linking Chatuchak, Chinatown (Hua Lamphong) and the new Klong Toei terminal. Both networks are expanding: several new stations have opened in recent years, now covering districts previously hard to reach. From Suvarnabhumi international airport, the Airport Rail Link reaches Phaya Thai station (BTS interchange) in 30 minutes for 45 THB — by far the fastest way to reach the city centre. From Don Mueang (the low-cost airport), the A1 bus connects to the Mo Chit BTS terminal (Chatuchak) in 30-40 minutes for 30 THB. The Grab app is essential for trips outside the rail network — count 80 to 300 THB depending on distance and time of day. Official metered taxis are cheap but exposed to Bangkok's traffic, particularly during rush hour (8-9 am and 5-7 pm). The Chao Phraya express boats (orange line, 15-40 THB) are the most picturesque way to reach the riverside sights: Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Chinatown from the Sathorn pier (Central Pier). Tuk-tuks (60-200 THB) are iconic but operate on fully unmetered fares — always negotiate before climbing in and beware of detours to souvenir shops.

Between Bangkok and Chiang Mai (700 km), you have three main options. The domestic flight remains the fastest: 1h15, frequent departures from Don Mueang (AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air) or Suvarnabhumi (Thai Airways) for €25-70 return depending on availability and lead time. The overnight sleeper train (departing Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station around 6 pm, arriving in Chiang Mai around 7-7:30 am) in an air-conditioned second-class berth is a memorable and comfortable experience for 600-900 THB — book on the State Railway of Thailand site several weeks ahead in high season. The overnight bus (400-600 THB, 10-11 hours) is the cheapest but the least restful; it leaves from Bangkok's northern terminal (Mo Chit). If you have the time and budget, the sleeper train remains the editorial recommendation: arriving in Chiang Mai at sunrise from the dining car is a lasting memory.

From Chiang Mai, links exist to Chiang Rai (bus, 3-4 hours, 130-200 THB or van, 3 hours, 200-250 THB) and to the Pai region (bus or minivan, 3 hours of winding roads, 130-200 THB) — not recommended if you are prone to motion sickness. Domestic flights also link Chiang Mai directly to Bangkok if you wish to continue south at the end of your stay.

In Chiang Mai, the Old City is best explored by bicycle (rental 50-100 THB/day at most guesthouses) or on foot. Songthaews (red pickups converted into shared taxis) are the staple transport in town: 30-40 THB for fixed-route rides to the main destinations. They stop anywhere on their route — signal by tapping on the bodywork. The Grab app also works in Chiang Mai. For excursions into the hills (Doi Inthanon, hill-tribe villages, Bua Tong waterfall), rent a motorbike (200-350 THB/day, international permit recommended or required by serious rental outfits) or join an organised tour from agencies in the centre — a stress-free option for circuits including guide and meals.